aluminium's ultra-low weight

Aluminium is one of the most widely used metals in the world, second only to steel. Much of this is thanks to its remarkably low weight, which - combined with its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability - makes it ideal for countless applications, particularly in the packaging and transportation industries.

If you've ever worked with aluminium (or even held an aluminium tin can), you might have wondered what gives this metal its trademark lightness. Well, that's what the metal experts at Clickmetal are here to explain!

In the guide below, we'll explore the science behind aluminium's low weight, diving deep into its molecular structure to uncover what sets it apart. But before we do, let's first understand why having a lightweight material is so beneficial.

What Are the Benefits of a Metal Being Lightweight?

Lightweight metals like aluminium, titanium, and magnesium come with a multitude of advantages, both during manufacturing and in the final product itself. Here are just some of the many reasons why they're so valued:

  • Performance: Lighter components lead to better overall performance in many fields. For example, lighter racing bicycles improve acceleration, while lighter aircraft wings or robotic arms have quicker and more precise movements.
  • Vehicle Efficiency: Vehicles made with lighter metals require less energy to move, translating to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This is a major benefit for the environment and cost savings on fuel.
  • Transport: Lightweight metals are much easier and cheaper to transport than their heavier counterparts, especially in large volumes.
  • Machinability: Many low-weight metals are relatively easy to machine and shape, which can reduce fabrication costs and allow for more complex designs.

In short, lightweight metals play a key role in modern engineering by allowing for lighter, more efficient, and performance-driven designs in various industries.

What Makes Aluminium Lighter Than Other Common Metals?

Aluminium's lightness comes from two things: its density and its atomic weight. We've explained both in more detail below!

1. Density

The first key to aluminium's lightness lies in its density - the amount of mass packed into a given volume. The density of aluminium is around 2.7 grams per cubic centimetre (g/cm³), which is about one-third the density of steel or copper.

Here are the main factors behind aluminium's low density:

  • Metallic bonding: Aluminium atoms are held together by metallic bonds which are not as tightly packed as covalent or ionic bonds found in other materials. The distance between aluminium atoms allows it to have a lower density.
  • Structure: Aluminium forms a face-centred cubic crystal structure which creates a relatively open and less compact arrangement of atoms compared to some other metals.
  • Electron configuration: Unlike some heavier elements in its group, aluminium's inner electrons effectively shield its outer electrons. This reduces the attraction between the positively charged nucleus and the negatively charged outer electrons, allowing them to be spaced out a bit more. This, in turn, slightly influences the density of the metal.

2. Atomic Weight

The second key is the actual weight of aluminium's atoms. Aluminium atoms are much lighter than those of heavier metals like iron or copper, which is because the aluminium nucleus contains fewer protons and neutrons, giving it a lighter core. Lower atomic mass translates to less overall weight for the same amount of aluminium material.

Premium Aluminium, Custom-Cut for Your Project

At Clickmetal, we understand the importance of keeping your project light on its feet. That's why we custom cut each aluminium sheet, angle, bar, and component to your exact specifications. You'll only pay for what you need -- no waste, no excess weight.

Once we receive your order, we'll aim to process it within 3 to 5 business days. We'll then ship it out to you via our speedy 24-hour courier service the very next working day, so you'll be able to get started on your job in no time!

Ready to experience the Clickmetal difference? Shop our aluminium components today!